Dr Adam Hastings-Cook
BSc(Hons), GDip, PGDip, PGDip, DClinPsych
Clinical Psychologist
and
Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapist (ISTDP)
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Introduction
People seek therapy for a wide range of reasons, they are often acutely aware of the symptoms they experience, whether it be high levels of anxiety, mood problems, difficulties forming and maintaining relationships, or do not feel their life is as fulfilling as it could be. However, they are usually unaware of what is happening beneath the surface that is maintaining their problems and causing these symptoms.
Whilst we all face difficulties from time to time, sometimes we need help from someone separate from our lives who offers a safe and trusting space and is trained to help us identify and address the deeper causes of what is troubling us.
I practice a form of therapy called Attachment-Based Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (AB-ISTDP) this addresses the underlying causes of a persons problems in the most effective and rapid manner possible, enabling the person to move forwards with their lives in the shortest time possible and eventually blossom.
This is unlike other therapies I am trained in, which essentially aim to develop healthier coping strategies at an intellectual level.
I offer a cost-free and commitment free initial assessment session, this is to give you an opportunity to explore whether this form of therapy is appropriate for you.
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About ISTDP
ISTDP is a well-known, well-documented and well-respected model of therapy that focuses on creating deep and lasting change for individuals in the shortest time frame possible. It is an evidence-based approach shown to be effective and suitable for a broad range of psychological issues including but not limited to anxiety, panic attacks, treatment resistant mood disorders, PTSD, sexual problems, bereavement, substance misuse issues, personality disorder related issues and unexplained medical symptoms.
Transformative change can rapidly be seen in the character of the client. Research indicates positive outcomes are long lasting and most importantly improvements continue long after therapy ends.
To help people become what they have always had the potential to be, is satisfying for both parties who are engaged in the process. To work together to find and overcome the barriers to personal fulfilment in life is an exciting and inspiring journey. They are not only able to overcome symptoms but are able to reach their full potential in all areas of their life.
About Me
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist registered with the Health Care Professions Council and British Psychological Society. I completed my doctoral clinical training at Birmingham University and have 18 years experience working as a psychologist in the capacity of a practitioner, supervisor, lead of service and administering training both in the NHS and the private sector.
My specialty is working with Adults who present with a wide range of often very complex issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance misuse issues, personality and relational issues. I have also worked in a range of other services including Inpatient, Brain Injury, Learning Disability, Older Adult and Child /Adolescents.
I have post qualification training in a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mentalisation Based Therapy (MBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Interpersonal Therapy (PIT), Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT) Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) and Attachment Based-Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (AB-ISTDP). I now solely practice AB- ISTDP.
I receive regular supervision and have completed my own personal therapy, specifically (ISTDP).
What to expect during the assessment session.
During the assessment session I will ask you about life experiences and what you would like help with and together we can establish a treatment goal.
ISTDP enables patients to pay much closer attention to themselves and their feelings largely by identifying and overcoming the automatic and self-defeating barriers between yourself and other people that prevent this.
The positive news is that habits can change with the appropriate kind of support. I will then give you choices as to how you can experience your feelings in ‘healthier’ ways. Doing so enables you to experience your feelings to their fullest, enabling you to overcome any past unresolved emotional issues, allow a natural healing process to occur. This not only brings symptomatic relief but more importantly it enables you to use your feelings to guide your decision making in all areas of your life in the present allowing you to blossom and reach your full potential.
Issues are addressed systematically, with the greatest sensitivity and confidentiality and in manner whereby the patient has control over the process ensuring they work at a pace that is optimal for them, so that they feel sufficiently challenged but not overwhelmed.
Fees
£120 an hour
Beginning therapy is a courageous step, please feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or if you would like to book a commitment-free initial assessment session.
Get in Touch
Please note: During the covid lockdown I am working via ‘Zoom’ (password protected).
I plan to resume face to face contact shortly, I will have received my second vaccination on 6th May and follow all covid government guidelines.